Gesneriad Information
NEMATANTHUS
The genus Nematanthus (nem-a-TAN-thus) was named by Henrich Shrader, a
German, in 1821. The genus name is derived from the Greek words Nea (thread)
and anthus (flower). Hence the name thread flower. The six species originally
included in the genus had pouch shaped flowers hanging at the end of a long
penduncle (flower stem). All six species are native to Brazil. Since then the genus
Hypocyrta has been submerged into the genus. The Hypocyrta have short
penduncles and pouch shaped flowers. Flower colors range from yellow to orange
to red.
The culture of the Nematanthus is very similar to the Columnea. They do best in a
hanging basket or shallow azalea pot. Plant tip cuttings in a soilless mix consisting
of two parts Jiffy Mix (one part vermiculite to one part peat moss) to one part perlite.
Nematanthus are more sensitive to summer heat than Columneas and other
Gesneriads. Let them dry out between watering and give them good ventilation in
the summer. High humidity and misting are beneficial. Some growers don't put
perlite in their soilless mix as it absorbs and retains fertilizer slats which can burn the
roots. Do not use lime in the soil since they like a slightly acidic mix. The light
requirements are similar to the African Violet. So they do well in a light garden or in
a window or on the porch in the summer. Conditions will vary for different cultivars
and species. Fertilize during active growth. Use a fish emulsion fertilizer or a 1/4
strength fertilizer such as Rapid Gro every time you water.